Winterization
The process of closing a pool or hot tub for the winter to prevent freeze damage.
Definition
Winterization (pool closing) involves a specific sequence of steps to protect pool equipment and surfaces from freeze damage during cold weather: balancing water chemistry, adding winter chemicals (algaecide, scale inhibitor), draining water below skimmers and jets, blowing out plumbing lines, plugging returns, removing and storing equipment, and covering the pool. Hot tub winterization involves either proper insulation and continuous low-level heating, or full draining. Improper winterization is one of the most common and expensive pool maintenance mistakes.
Relationships
Outgoing Relationships
- requires → Water Balancing
- recommended for → Swimming Pool
- related to → Pool Opening
- uses → Pool Cover
Incoming Relationships
- related to ← Pool Closing Checklist